Panamanian stakeholders were in the United States last week to learn more about the economic and environmental benefits of implementing ethanol blend policies and to become familiar with the various aspects of the ethanol industry and the opportunities to complement local ethanol production with imports.

Led by the U.S. Grains Council’s (USGC) Latin America regional ethanol consultants, Juan Diaz and Carlos Suarez, the group visited Washington, D.C., before traveling to Iowa to see the ethanol industry in action. While in Washington, the group visited USGC headquarters and
had the opportunity to hear from other organizations including the National Corn Growers Association, Renewable Fuels Association, and Growth Energy.

In Iowa, the group visited the Iowa Corn Growers Association in Des Moines, several convenience stores, POET’s bioprocessing facility in Jewell, and ended up on the farm of Will and Cassie Cannon, who also hosted Gov. Kim Reynolds Biofuel Access Bill signing this week. Cannon talked about the visit during his remarks when the governor visited the farm.

“When we hosted the group last week, they asked my why is ethanol good, why should they consider it in Panama,” Cannon said he gave them three answers. First, he said, was the amazing productivity of the American farmer to grow corn. “My second answer is that ethanol is a way to lower our emissions and clean our environment,” said Cannon. “Number three, it’s a way to lower prices and make it easier on family budgets.”

Cannon said a fourth reason is national security. “And so that’s why I’m really proud as a farmer to contributing to ethanol.” Listen to Cannon’s remarks as he introduces Gov. Reynolds.
Iowa governor signs biofuels access bill 10:35